Anderson, a basketball player for the New Orleans Pelicans, has now released a statement thanking fans for their support and praising his late girlfriend.

"I'm deeply grateful for all the love and support we have received from family, friends and fans," he said. "Gia was the most beautiful person I knew inside and out and she always smiled and made everyone else around her smile."

Anderson added: "She had such an amazing impact on my life and anyone that knew her was blessed. All I have left is to cherish those memories we made together and help perpetuate the many values, faith and love that we shared."

A number of stars from the Bachelor and Bachelorette franchise have paid tribute to Allemand in the hours since the news broke that she has passed away.